The Israeli government is seeking to extend its controversial ban on the Al Jazeera news network in the country, after a court upheld the restriction but shortened it by 10 days.
In May, Israel banned the Qatari-based news network from operating in the country for 45 days under a sweeping new wartime law that allows the government to ban foreign media organizations it deems 'harmful' to the nation’s security. Al Jazeera condemned the move as a 'dark day for democracy' that sets a concerning precedent.
While the ban is not permanent and only valid during the declared period of war, the Israeli government can continue to extend the closure for additional 45-day periods.
On Tuesday, a Tel Aviv District Court ruled that the ban could stand but was to be shortened to 35 days, meaning it will expire on Sunday. Al Jazeera said it was notified by the Israeli Ministry of Communications on Wednesday that it intends to request that the government and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approve another 45-day ban.
Israel has claimed that Al Jazeera 'harms Israeli security' and has a 'close connection' with the militant group Hamas. Al Jazeera, one of the only networks to have a live, consistent presence from within the blockaded Gaza strip, has denied Israel’s claims, calling the allegations 'dangerous and ridiculous.' At least six of its staff members have been killed in Gaza since the war began.
